Logitech K380 Keyboard Review and Problems Experienced After 1 Year

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Logitech K380 is one of the highly sought-after portable keyboards during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its sales were skyrocketing, as almost everyone purchased this keyboard for remote work. Is the K380 keyboard still worth using today? So here’s the Logitech K380 Keyboard Review and Problems Experienced after 1 Year.

The Logitech K380 keyboard is designed for people who want a portable, versatile keyboard that can be used with multiple devices. This keyboard model is often referred to as a TKL (Ten Keys Less) or half keyboard, with dimensions of only 10.2 x 4.1 x 0.6 inches and weighing 0.8 ounces. The K380 became a deal breaker because it is compatible with Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Chrome OS, Android, iOS, and even Apple TV. The keyboard also offers several features that make it well-suited for individuals who work across multiple devices, such as the ability to switch between devices with a single button press.

Okay, let’s skip discussing the specifications since they are widely available on other websites. How has the experience been using this keyboard for one year? Let’s focus on its shortcomings first.

Shortcomings of the Logitech K380 Keyboard

Not waterproof: Don’t be deceived by the Logitech K380 Keyboard’s high-quality plastic design. In reality, this keyboard is not waterproof. You need to be cautious not to spill liquids on it or place drinks near your workspace.
Not suitable for very fast typing: For those who work as web developers or writers, with typing speeds reaching around 70-80 words per minute, the Logitech K380 keyboard may not be able to handle extremely fast typing speeds exceeding 80 words per minute. This could be due to Bluetooth latency. However, if you are an average typist with a typing speed of 50-60 words per minute, this keyboard can still handle your typing needs very well. For the next iteration of the K380, it’s worth considering the use of a 2.4 GHz dongle or an extension cable port to handle users with high-speed typing like a Shinkansen bullet train.
Round keys: In terms of design, the round keys are a unique feature that distinguishes it from conventional keyboards with square-shaped keys. However, some people may find it less comfortable due to the shift from the habit of pressing square keys to round ones. There is almost no solution to this issue since the Logitech K380 Keyboard cannot have its keys customized into unconventional shapes like mechanical keyboards. You just have to get used to the rounded keys. By the way, did you know that typewriters used to have round keys, and people back then didn’t mind this aspect?
Not suitable for gamers: Technologically, even the latest Bluetooth technology cannot fully address this issue. The problem is that when you switch from one device to another, there is a 3-5 second delay to establish a connection between the devices. Don’t expect it to be as responsive as a wired keyboard where the letters appear on the screen instantly after pressing the keys. However, the Logitech K380 keyboard is smart. It overcomes this problem by remaining continuously connected to its Bluetooth receiver. So, if you continuously use this keyboard for under 30 minutes, you won’t experience issues like Bluetooth latency. Unless you watch a 2-hour movie and then start typing again, that’s when the delay becomes noticeable.

Advantages of the Logitech K380 Keyboard:

Compact size: Although the K380 keyboard is smaller than a standard full-size keyboard, the key placement is still comfortable for those with larger fingers. So, there are no issues when transitioning from a full-size keyboard to the Logitech K380. You will only lose the numeric keypad, but for many people, including myself, I rarely use the numeric keys found on the right side of a full-size keyboard. So, it’s not a problem and actually provides the added benefit of more desk space, giving a clean and tidy appearance.
Switching between devices is enjoyable: For those who own three devices such as a PC, iPad, and iPhone, maximizing the functionality of each device by using a single keyboard is quite enjoyable. Place your phone in a dock, cover your iPad, and when a message arrives on your phone while you’re working, simply switch to respond to the message. Once you’ve replied, continue working without having to pick up your phone or switch keyboards from your PC keyboard to the iPad keyboard. It’s as simple as pressing F1, F2, F3 to switch between devices.
Premium typing experience: Priced below $100, the Logitech K380 Keyboard provides a typing experience similar to a $300 keyboard due to its high-quality plastic construction. Even though it lacks backlighting and caps lock indicators, the most important aspect of a keyboard is typing comfort. Once you experience that comfort with the Logitech K380, the remaining features become mere gimmicks. Personally, I rarely pay attention to the keyboard’s indicator lights because when I’m typing, my eyes are always on the screen. So, it’s as simple as glancing at the screen to see whether the letters appear in uppercase or lowercase. It’s that easy.

Considering the pros and cons of the Logitech K380 Keyboard from my perspective as a user for one year, it is definitely worth buying due to its affordable price compared to other Chinese keyboards.

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